Here’s a delicious recipe for irresistible mozzarella cheese sticks:
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 ½ cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
- Unwrap the mozzarella cheese sticks and cut each stick in half to create 24 smaller sticks. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze the Cheese Sticks:
- Freeze the cheese sticks for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly when frying.
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with the flour, one with the eggs and water (whisked together), and one with the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper (mixed together).
- Bread the Cheese Sticks:
- Dip each frozen cheese stick into the flour, coating it completely. Shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured cheese stick into the egg mixture, coating it well.
- Finally, roll the cheese stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the cheese stick to ensure they adhere well.
- Place the breaded cheese sticks back on the baking sheet and freeze for another 30 minutes.
- Fry the Cheese Sticks:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the cheese sticks in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried cheese sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the mozzarella cheese sticks hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your irresistible mozzarella cheese sticks!
Would you like tips on variations or other related recipes?